Question:
Will Bluecross Blueshield Alabama cover RNY??

I have BCBS Alabama and I REALLY want to get the RNY surgery. I am just nervous about the 'supervised weight loss attempt' they require. I have read several times that all you have to do is write on a piece of paper the times you tried to lose weight and what you used. I just need to hear peoples experience with BCBS Alabama when it comes to the weight loss programs! Thank you for reading!    — boomsheeka01 (posted on July 23, 2009)

July 23, 2009
I am a medical claims biller, and also just received my surgery date for RNY. Most PPA contracts through BCBSAL exclude anything pertaining to obesity. Which means no doctor visits or weight loss surgery. I myself have an Alabama CCQ contract through Cinram and I had to have the following: 6 month Medically Supervised diet 3 years of documentation of Obesity in Medical Records Psychological Evaluation Dietitian Evaluation Surgeon Evaluation Letter of Necessity from PCP It took about 2-3 weeks once they sent my records to BCBS to get approved. The best way to find out your coverage is to call your insurance company, read your benefit booklet from your employer. Your insurance company will state it is your responsibility to know your benefits!! Hope this helps!!
   — [Deactivated Member]

July 25, 2009
As far as I know, all but two BCBSAL contracts require the 6 mth pre-op diet. I was lucky and did not have to do this. I was approved quickly and BCBS has paid all my bills. I do a little bit of coinsurance but not much. I also had a little problem in the hospital & they had to go back in and check everything out. BC paid all of those claims. BCBSAL is much easier than alot of other BC plans. Good Luck to you!
   — mlacosta